Artistic and not true to scale representation of the dust around Proxima Centauri

(Image: ESO / M.

Proxima Centauri is the closest star to our sun and since 2016 we know that it is orbiting at least one exoplanet. Now astronomers have found clues that suggest there may be more planets there.

Astronomers have discovered a belt of cold dust around the sunniest star, Proxima Centauri, as well as evidence of the existence of a second belt. This is the first indication after the discovery of the exoplanet Proxima b that the star is even orbited by several planets, according to a statement by the researchers. The discovery suggests that "Proxima Centauri could have a multiple planetary system that has experienced many interactions in the past that have formed a dust belt," says project leader Guillem Anglada. Now information should be sought, where such previously undiscovered exoplanets could be found.
Proxima Centauri is a faint red dwarf located four light-years from our solar system. Last year, astronomers discovered Proxima b, the closest exoplanet to it. The system is also so interesting because it is even within the reach of space probes. For example, the Russian billionaire Yuri Milner wants to develop nano-probes within the framework of the project "Breakthrough Starshot", which can overcome the distance in 20 years. Although they should be sent to Alpha Centauri, the binary star system is relatively close to Proxima Centauri.

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Next relatives
The most earthly exoplanets to date – confirmed and unconfirmed (*) – in a habitable zone (Image: PHL @ UPR Arecibo)